St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi
Hanoi, VietnamHanoi's Gothic Revival cathedral, built by the French in 1886. The twin bell towers and neo-Gothic facade are a striking counterpoint to the surrounding Old Quarter alleys. The square in front is a popular evening gathering spot with dozens of cafes.
More Culture in Hanoi
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Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
The spiritual and geographic heart of Hanoi. The lake (meaning "Lake of the Returned Sword") is steeped in legend. The red Huc Bridge leads to Ngoc Son Temple on a small island. The morning tai chi sessions around the lake are unmissable.
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Temple of Literature
Vietnam's first national university, founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. The Temple of Literature is a superb example of traditional Vietnamese architecture - five walled courtyards with lakes, gardens, and stone steles honoring doctoral graduates.
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Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The preserved body of Ho Chi Minh lies in state in this imposing Soviet-built granite mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square - where he declared Vietnamese independence in 1945. A deeply significant site for Vietnamese people; visitors must dress conservatively and maintain silence.